The document discusses the distinction between 'hard' outcomes, which are measurable changes like increased employment or reduced debt, and 'soft' outcomes, such as improved confidence and wellbeing, which are more difficult to quantify but equally important. It emphasizes the need to identify specific indicators for measuring soft outcomes to enhance evaluation effectiveness. Additionally, it invites readers to seek assistance from Evaluation Support Scotland for help in measuring these outcomes.

1. When ‘soft’ is hard - Measuring outcomes

2. Outcomes are the changes or differences that ‘come out’ of your activities

3. If you’re lucky, some of these will be nice and measurable…

4. Increased employment Reduced truancy Less debt Fewer hospital admissions For example:

5. We call these ‘hard’ outcomes – they are fairly concrete and easy to measure

6. But hard outcomes don’t always reflect the heart and soul of your work

7. Improved confidence Increased employability Sustained wellbeing Reduced risk For example:

8. These are examples of ‘soft’ outcomes. Although they are hard to measure, ignoring them is a mistake.

9. We just need a little imagination…

10. Imagine what will happen when you have achieved your outcomes. What would that look like?

11. The answers to this question will give you useful indicators for measuring soft outcomes

12. Improved confidence (soft outcome) might look like… For example:

13. Can say ‘no’ if necessary Able to make new friends Ability to speak up in a group Improved confidence

14. These are potential outcome indicators. Indicators should be as specific to your context as possible, so that they reflect your work and the people you work with.

15. Two or three good indicators for each outcome will make them more measurable.

16. They will save you time by doing away with ineffective measures. (This is one of our outcomes at Evaluation Support Scotland!)

17. They will make evaluation more valid … and valuable

18. Contact us For help to make soft outcomes easier to measure, contact Evaluation Support Scotland [email_address] 0131 243 2770 www.evaluationsupportscotland.org.uk